Go Green :: Green Building Principles

Throughout the Urban Exchange building the developers are making a commitment to the environment with energy efficiencies and environmental design.

We are improving the efficiencies through conserving electricity, water and other natural resources with the use of elements such as:

We are using Jeld-Wenenergy efficient windows with Aura-Last wood which is protected from wood decay, water saturation and termites by an environmentally-friendly process. This water-based process reduces hazardous air pollutants emissions by more that 96 percent. The window also incorporate high-performance low-e glass that lowers energy costs. The coatings incorporated into the windows block 83% of harmful UV rays and 96% of the sun’s infrared heat. (Source: Jen-Weld)

Our air-conditioning units conform to the new energy efficient standards that increase the efficiency by minimum of 30% for a 13 SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) from the traditional 10 SEER; this will lead to reducing our carbon footprint and reducing our electrical consumption. (Source: Environmental and Energy Study Institute). In addition to the increased efficiency, the refrigerant “Puron R410A” replaces the refrigerant that is thought to cause the earth’s ozone layer to diminish. Puron is also a safe, non-toxic, non flammable and environmentally responsible product (Source: Carrier).

Urban Exchange's green roof between the two towers limits the use of water through efficiencies in landscaping. Throughout the landscaping we have integrated a walkway using TimberTech as the planking. TimeberTech is a wood composite product manufactured with recycled wood waste that does not require any chemically treated woods, painting, staining or sealing.

Throughout the building process, we have chosen as many products as possible with low VOC emissions (volatile organic compounds) thus reducing harmful contaminants for indoor air quality. One example is the Eco Spec paint from Benjamin Moore, which is a low odor, zero VOC, 100% acrylic latex that provides high hiding, excellent touch up, and a uniform finish.

Each tower at Urban Exchange will include a recycling chute to allow residents to conveniently recycle paper, plastic and glass.

The use of long lasting cement siding requires fewer resources for replacement and reduces maintenance and repairs. The siding is manufactured in Virginia and thus reduces the environmental impact caused by transportation.

“The single most important factor in green architecture is durability. If you want something to be green it has to last a long time. It has to handle water, heat and UV radiation. Fiber-cement handles all three exceptionally well” – Joseph Lstiburek, BASC, MENG., PHD, PENG
(Source: JamesHardie)

The location of Urban Exchanges reduces the need for your car as it is well located to public transport. Read more about location.

The concrete parking garage within the building helps limit the site disturbance for additional asphalt parking areas.

The redevelopment of the Joe Bowman Chevrolet dealership provided an opportunity to provide an innovative living environment in downtown Harrisonburg. By redeveloping the infill site we are incorporating additional green initiates that use existing resources i.e. water, sewer, and road infrastructure.

The developers made a commitment to use a large number of local suppliers and construction personnel as its commitment to reduce transportation cost and keep its dollars in the local economy.

Learn about the ways Urban Exchange is working to promote green living:

Information provided, including square footage, is deemed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. All information should be independently verified.
Urban Exchange is marketed and represented by OffCampusHousing.com and HarrisonburgHousing.com.